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    Effect of Biochar Addition on Mechanical Properties, Thermal Stability, and Water Resistance of Hemp-Polylactic Acid (PLA) Composites

    Year: 2022

    Journal: Materials, Volume 15, MAR

    Authors: Zouari, Mariem; Devallance, David B.; Marrot, Laetitia

    Organizations: European Commission through the InnoRenew project [739574]; Republic of Slovenia (Republic of Slovenia); Republic of Slovenia (European Regional Development Fund); European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the H2020 Marie Skodowska-Curie Actions [898179]; ARRS infrastructural program at the University of Primorska [IO-0035]

    Keywords: biochar; polylactic acid; hemp fibers; mechanical properties; thermal stability; water resistance

    The present study investigated the effect of biochar (BC) addition on mechanical, thermal, and water resistance properties of PLA and hemp-PLA-based composites. BC was combined with variable concentration to PLA (5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 20 wt%) and hemp (30 wt%)-PLA (5 wt% and 10 wt%); then, composites were blended and injection molded. Samples were characterized by color measurements, tensile tests, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and water contact angle analysis. Experimental results showed that adding 5 wt% of BC enhanced the composite's tensile modulus of elasticity and strength. Hence, the use of optimized loading of BC improved the mechanical strength of the composites. However, after BC addition, thermal stability slightly decreased compared with that of neat PLA due to the catalytic effect of BC particles. Moreover, the water-repelling ability decreased as BC content increased due to the specific hydrophilic characteristics of the BC used and its great porosity.
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